It’s Vancouver Island, decks are amazing to have, whether to enhance your view (Blessed with so many great ones) or creating the perfect patio space to entertain friends and family, they are certainly a part of our culture.
If you are considering building your own or expanding upon your existing, and you don’t know if you are ready to get a complimentary quote from us, these are some important things to consider!
DO NOT Ignore Local Building Codes
Permits, permits, permits. Yes, the process and rules can be frustrating at times, especially working over so many municipalities but it is essential that you know what is allowed and what isn’t. Some of the allowances may seem silly at first, but they often come with safety in mind. For the rules that don’t, it is better to know them and avoid them than to get called in by a neighbour that knows them better than you.
Should you choose to ignore these, (Can take time and resources, your neighbours are relaxed, contractor gave a cash price etc.) know that you do so at your own peril. This can result in fines, forced removal of your deck and even serious safety hazards. You always need to make sure you know the requirements and obtain the necessary permits.
Adhering to local building codes is essential when constructing a deck. These codes ensure your deck meets safety standards and regulations. Ignoring them can result in fines, the forced removal of your deck, and serious safety hazards. Always check with your local building department before starting your project to understand the requirements and obtain the necessary permits.
DO NOT Skimp on the Foundation
The foundation is the most critical part of your project. A weak foundation can lead to an unstable and unsafe structure that won’t stand the test of time and maybe not the test of your end of summer BBQ. This is a big one we see inexperienced builders skimp on as, let’s face it, digging, leveling and filling can be tedious and if the yard is closed and you need another load of material, the temptation to skimp can be strong for some.
Ensure proper footings and supports are in place to provide a solid base for your deck. Investing in a strong foundation will prevent future settling problems and make the rest of your build that much easier.
The added importance on Vancouver Island is that you don’t want a ton of loose soil under and around your deck not just because it’s not a solid foundational material, but that it holds water and can lead to rotting wood and failing paint or stain. Give yourself the extra support, clearance and peace of mind.
DO NOT Use Inadequate Materials
Save the cut offs for better purposes than your decking! Using low-quality or inappropriate materials can cause premature wear, rot, and safety issues. Choose durable, weather-resistant materials that are suitable for outdoor use. Pressure-treated lumber, composite decking, and stainless-steel fasteners are excellent choices that can withstand the elements and provide a long-lasting deck. Keep in mind you will be walking on this surface, so while you may have some beautiful rough cut cedar, take a moment to think of your poor socks should you choose to go shoeless on it (We’ve seen it!).
Neglect Proper Sealing and Treatment
Wooden decks require sealing and treatment to protect against rot, decay, and insect infestations. Victoria gets its fair share of rain and moisture, this is a very important piece and why you won’t see many, if any, painters warrantying decks.
Neglecting this step can lead to significant damage over time. Regularly seal and treat your deck to maintain its appearance and structural integrity. This will extend the life of your deck and keep it looking great for years to come.
Keep in mind that this process is different depending on your decks surface substrate. What works great for one won’t be the solution for another. Make sure you know how you are going to maintain your deck ahead of time. If it is going to require staining every 2-3 years for example, make sure you factor that into your cost when comparing to something like a composite board. Also, the reapplication of stain will darken and change the colour over time, another piece to consider.
DO NOT Overlook Weight Limits
It’s crucial to consider the weight your deck will support, including furniture, people, and other items. Your plans might include tenting, BBQ and wrought iron furniture, all of which are going to put pressure on your deck.
Failing to do so can result in structural failure and even potential injuries, it really isn’t something to take lightly (especially if you’ve missed the first piece of this blog and skimped on your foundation. Calculate the expected load and ensure your space is designed to handle it. Consult with a structural engineer if you’re unsure about the weight limits.
These weight limits will play into a few different things, primarily what material you will need to use and spacing between supports. There are archives of examples online where caution has been hurled to the wind and the most optimistic “engineering” has taken place. Don’t add your deck to this compendium of accidents waiting to happen.
DO NOT Ignore Drainage and Ventilation
Proper drainage and ventilation are essential to prevent water buildup and rot. Without adequate drainage, water can accumulate and cause wood to deteriorate, this usually happens around footings or even where decks haven’t been sloped properly.
Ensure there’s sufficient space for both air circulation and water runoff. This is a major one on the island because we have so much moisture, you may not want a traditional paint on a deck that sits only a few inches off the ground for example.
Installing a slight slope and using gap-spacing between deck boards can help with drainage as well. Another important note along this line is that different surfaces will react differently to moisture, with some wood products swelling with temperature and moisture and if your spacing wasn’t done properly your boards may buckle over time.
Improper Fastening Is Dangerous!
Using the wrong fasteners or not using enough can compromise the integrity of your deck. Always use corrosion-resistant screws and nails designed for outdoor use. Avoid using common nails, which can rust and weaken over time. Securely fastening all components will ensure a stable and safe deck. Make sure the pieces you are bracing are actually braced and make sure things are fastened properly with the right materials. Again, there are troves of examples where this was done poorly and they are ticking time bombs.
DO NOT Fail to Plan for Maintenance
Building a deck that requires more maintenance than you can manage will shorten its lifespan. As mentioned earlier, consider the upkeep involved in the materials you choose. For instance, composite decking requires less maintenance than wood but can be more expensive upfront. Select materials and finishes that match your maintenance capabilities to keep your deck in top condition. If you want a deck that will last for twenty years but have no desire to strip and sand it every 5 to bring back its original glory, a beautiful semi-stained cedar deck may not be the right choice for you if you haven’t factored in paying for that upkeep.
DO NOT Neglect Safety Features
Safety features like handrails, guardrails, and adequate lighting are essential for a secure deck. Skipping these can create a dangerous environment, especially for children. While you will have found your railing requirements most likely in your permitting process, ensure your deck design includes ALL necessary safety features to prevent accidents and injuries. After all, you do NOT want to end up on the news.
Lack of a Clear Plan Will Lead to Failure
This goes for more than just decks obviously, but why would you ever just cross your fingers and hope for the best when spending the time, effort, money and energy to build a deck?
Building without a detailed plan can lead to costly mistakes and at best an inefficient build process. Plan out the dimensions, materials, and design of your deck before starting construction. Having a clear blueprint will guide you through the project and help you stay on track, ensuring a successful outcome.
We see this all the time, quick eyeball measurements that lead to creative fixes that are now a problem we are trying to solve. Problems that were completely avoidable with the right plan in place.
You can save money building your own deck, many people do and they build beautiful ones that last a long time. It can be a rewarding project that can enhance your outdoor living space, improve your view and increase the quality of your summers. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your deck is safe, durable, and beautiful. Take the time to plan carefully, use high-quality materials, and adhere to local building codes to create a deck that will provide years of enjoyment. If you would like a complimentary estimate to see what it would take for us to do it for you, we are always happy to help!
